Gas shortage: Gov. Cooper declares state of emergency for NC, halts vehicle regulations
RALEIGH, N.C. (WLOS) — In light of the recent cybersecurity attack that temporarily shut down one of the largest pipelines in the United States, Governor Roy Cooper on Monday signed an Executive Order declaring a state of emergency in North Carolina. The order also temporarily suspends motor vehicle fuel regulations to ensure adequate fuel supply supplies throughout the state.
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On May 7, 2021, the Colonial Pipeline system reported a ransomware cyberattack, resulting in a temporary shutdown of that line. The Colonial Pipeline is a primary fuel pipeline for North Carolina.
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“Today’s emergency declaration will help North Carolina prepare for any potential motor vehicle fuel supply interruptions across the state and ensure motorists are able to have access to fuel,” Governor Cooper said in a release.
The Order received concurrence from the Council of State. Read the full Executive Order No. 213 here.
CLICK HERE to check out GasBuddy's fuel availability tracker app to find and report fuel if stations run out of gas in your area.
The impact is already being seen locally, with some gas stations already out of fuel and others limiting the amount drivers can purchase.
Analysts at GasBuddy say it will take days for normal conditions to return even after the pipeline is back online. Still, experts are advising motorists not to panic purchase or hoard fuel as that will prolong any outages and spikes, making the situation worse. Motorists are asked to only purchase what fuel is immediately needed and avoid filling your tank until the pipeline resumes operations.
CLICK HERE to check out gas prices in your area.
AFTER PIPELINE CYBEREXTORTION ATTEMPT, GASOLINE TICKS HIGHER
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